Greater Spotted Woodpecker - Dendrocopos major |
The greater spotted woodpecker is a regular visitor to the woods around Shotover and can often be heard drumming in spring. In 2003 a pair chose to nest in an ideal spot for photography and these photos are the result. They were taken on 31st May and 1st June.
Whilst the male waits his turn
Male and female are easily distinguished in this species. The adult male has a red patch at the back of the head, which is absent in the female. Youngsters have a full red cap.
Whilst the young were in the nest, it seemed as though there was only one chick. Just one head was visible at the hole and he or she seemed to be responsible for all the shouting.
Copyright © Alan Simpson 2003 | Back to index. |